What it does

There’s a meme that’s been doing the rounds, making a connection between the weight gains of 2020 and the generously proportioned women in certain classical paintings.

The meme playfully highlights how hard it is to get out and get fit, and avoid stress-eating at a time like this.

Which is where the Ate Food Diary comes in. It’s a quick and easy resource to help you build a better relationship with food and hopefully cut down on the snacks that help you get through the day.

The app helps you track what you eat, so you can refine what foods work for you and which don’t.

But Ate Food Diary isn’t only for people who want to be mindful of their food for weight reasons. It can also help you pin down potential food intolerances.

When you first open the app, you’ll enter your name and choose why you’re there.

Are you focused on being Happy and Healthy, do you Want More Energy, or do you have your Own Plan?

Once you’ve made that decision, you can opt into journaling or mindful experiments, like eating from a smaller plate or taking two deep breaths before you eat.

Lovely little moments that help you re-focus on your food and pay attention to what you’re eating.

How it helps

You can build a healthier relationship with your food and gain a deeper appreciation for your meal times and the kind of foods you eat. The moment of pause that asks you to take a photo of what you’re eating may be enough to stop you from tucking into a Krispy Kreme, devouring a block of cheese, or indulging when you’re already full.

This app isn’t about judgement. You’re creating your own patterns and food memories that will help you become more attuned to your cravings, moods, stresses and comforts. At the end of each day you get a recap of activities, with stats and insights into how well you’re doing.

Conclusion

Overall, the app is seamless and easy to use and is well designed.

If you choose to follow a mindful experiment, the app puts it at the top of the screen for easy reference.

You can connect the app to various other health apps and adjust the settings to suit your needs.

You can stop the app saving images to your camera roll, and you can set reminders for breakfast, plan dinner, or rate your meal when you try something new.

In short, it’s a beautiful journal for your food journey, all in one.

What other users say

“Such a great alternative to calorie counting! I’m losing weight without feeling deprived and feel in control.”– Doolanism.

What the experts say

“Good for those who want the accountability and awareness that comes with keeping a food diary, without the calorie-counting or diet mentality.” – Ellie Krieger, Washington Post.